Despite strained ties,Tinubu condoles with Niger junta leader Tiani over father’s death

President Bola Tinubu has sent condolences to Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, after the death of his father, Elhadji Hassane, who died on November 5 at the age of 110. In a message issued by spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said Nigeria stood in solidarity with Niger and praised the late Hassane’s legacy of faith, honour and integrity. The gesture comes despite strained diplomatic ties following the 2023 coup and Niger’s exit from ECOWAS.

President Bola Tinubu has condoled with Niger Republic’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, over the death of his father, Elhadji Hassane, Premium Times reports.

Hassane died on Thursday, November 5, at the age of 110.

In a condolence message issued by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the Nigerian government and people stood in solidarity with Niger during the period of mourning.

“The passing of a father brings a profound and deeply personal grief,” the president said, urging Tiani to take solace in his father’s impact on the lives of others and his remarkable longevity.

Tinubu said the deceased left behind a legacy of faith, honour and integrity.

“In this moment of mourning, I pray that you will find solace in the enduring legacy of faith, honour, and integrity that your father leaves behind, and in the knowledge that his long and fulfilled life was a blessing to all who knew him,” he said.

The message comes amid strained relations between both countries following the July 2023 coup in Niger and the country’s withdrawal, alongside Mali and Burkina Faso, from ECOWAS in January 2025.